Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-01-26 05:15:08
Despite court orders against it, President William Ruto has declared that the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) programme will go ahead. He expressed this determination during the start of his three-day tour of Meru County, at Kianjai market. President Ruto criticized those who had filed cases against the initiative, labeling them as insensitive to the plight of the poor and accusing them of intending to continue stealing public funds with little regard for Kenyans who struggle to afford medical care.
Although the High Court has lifted orders against deductions towards the SHIF scheme, the case is still pending in court and will be mentioned on February 7. However, President Ruto affirmed that the program will proceed regardless of court orders, asserting that his administration had established regulations on universal health coverage to ensure that all Kenyans are covered.
During his visit, Ruto also addressed the issue of the cost of living, claiming that the cost of basic commodities had come down due to subsidies on fertilizer and other farm inputs. He attributed this to the government’s efforts to support farmers.
President Ruto’s tour was marked by the launching of various projects, including a potato cold storage facility, information and communication technology labs, and the commissioning of a substantial budget for electricity connection to 20,000 homes countrywide. He also emphasized the allocation of funds for junior schools and warned headteachers not to charge any fees.
Furthermore, President Ruto received strong support from government officials and leaders during his visit. He was accompanied by his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, Governor Kawira Mwangaza, and other regional leaders who pledged their support for his programs. The President is expected to continue his tour, touching on thorny issues of banditry and insecurity that have affected the region in the recent past.
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